The compounds of silver are used in photographic film and also used as disinfectants and microbiocides.
The World Map of Silver Producing Countries shows the list of the major countries that produce large quantities of silver. As shown in the map, Peru is the largest producer of silver; in 2010 the country produced 4000 metric tonnes of silver.
Mexico is the second-largest producer followed by China, Australia, Chile, Russia, Bolivia, United States, Poland, and Canada.
In 1792, silver assumed a key role in the United States monetary system when silver dollar was adopted as the currency. In the twentieth century, the economic value of silver was enhanced as it was recognized as an industrial raw material.
Although silver is relatively scarce, it is the most plentiful and least expensive of the precious metals.
COUNTRY | PRODUCTION IN METRIC TONNES |
Peru | 4000 |
Mexico | 3500 |
China | 3000 |
Australia | 1700 |
Chile | 1500 |
Russia | 1400 |
Bolivia | 1360 |
United States | 1280 |
Poland | 1200 |
Canada | 700 |
Othercountries | 2600 |
Last updated On : December 20, 2012
World Mineral Producer |